Crews are working to improve access to and from Rocky Mountain National Park with the Downtown Estes Loop Project.

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SUP on Lake Estes

Lake Estes

Chances are you spotted Lake Estes on your drive into town, but what is there to do there?

Lake Estes offers the obvious things any Colorado mountain lake would - fishing for beautiful trout, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and boating. The Lake Estes Marina offers rentals of kayaks, paddle boards and even a pontoon boat to get you out on the water.

Lake Estes is ringed by the 3.75-mile, aptly named Lake Estes Trail. Perfect for a stroll to enjoy the water and Continental Divide views, or the frequent wildlife sightings. You can also rent a bike from the marina, or bring your own!

 

Lake Estes Stanley background

Kayaking & Boating

Several lakes dot the Estes Park Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park, but only a few allow recreational boating. The most popular, Lake Estes, spreads across 185 surface acres to the east of downtown Estes Park. Here, at the Lake Estes Marina, visitors can rent canoes, lake kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, motorized fishing boats, pontoon boats and paddle boats from roughly May 1 to the middle of September (depending on the weather). Once on the water, the views offer a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and landscape. Plus, boating provides a fun way to spend a few hours or even a full day! Bring a picnic to enjoy on shore or in the boat. Fish, read, paddle or simply relax-once you're in control of the boat, the choice is yours. Explore inlets as the sun warms your back; you'll feel a million miles away from civilization even though you're in the heart of it.

Whether you have your own boat or choose to rent one, boating on Lake Estes offers a serene way to experience the beauty and serene way to experience the beauty and views of Estes Park and its surroundings. 

Lake Estes paddle board

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is a tranquil way to connect with the natural beauty of Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. Lake Estes is the right spot if you want to spend the day fishing while enjoying the beautiful views around. You can fish anywhere around the lake, there is also a fishing pier designed for handicap access. This pier is located just a few steps from the Fisherman's Nook parking lot.  If you are a fishing newbie it might be best to hire a guide. Fishing guides in Estes Park are passionate and highly knowledgeable about their sport and will be able to show you the all the basics. 

Fly Fishing